When I think of the holiday season, I think of food. Of course, I am always thinking of food. But especially during this time, the sight of a festive table setting or even the scent of warm cinnamon spice invokes a feeling of cheer. I think everyone can agree that food is one of the most prominent aspects of the holiday season. This year, I decided to decorate with it. There are so many things you can use right from your pantry to create beautiful table settings, dress a wreath or garland, or make delightful ornaments. Here are some of the things I’ve been working on:
Dried Citrus Slices
I love putting these everywhere for a nice contrast to the green pine needles. Simply thin-slice your choice of fruit (I like oranges, grapefruit, lemons Clementines, or apples) and lay on an even layer on a baking rack or cookie sheet. Bake at 275 degrees for about two hours, or it may take longer depending on the thickness of the slices. I sometimes pat the slices dry before baking to speed up the process. If you’re using a baking sheet instead of a rack, flip your citrus slices once or twice through drying process.
Pomander Balls (Clove-Studded Oranges)
These are super easy. Stick some cloves into an orange and that’s it. As these dry over time they will release their citrus-spice fragrances. Pre-pricking the holes with a toothpick will make the process a lot easier if the cloves are annoyingly sharp.
Votive Candles with Aromatics
Aah, candles. I love lighting them during the holidays, but I dislike the overly-scented Christmas-themed candles you can only use once a year. Here is my solution: highball bar glasses and votives. Maybe add some ribbon. In the glasses beneath the votives, I used winter aromatics like juniper berries, whole cloves, and allspice; but you can also get creative. Just make sure your votives are sitting above everything, so nothing catches fire!
Painted Pumpkins & Gourds
“Winterize” your mini pumpkins and squash from last month’s centerpieces with some festive, wintery patterns or gold paint. Let the kids help and get creative. If you don’t like how they turn out you can hide the less-pretty ones under some garland.
Cinnamon Pears:
A simple 50/50 mix of apple sauce and cinnamon makes a dough that dries hard in a few day’s time. Just roll into a ball, pinch the top and insert a clove for the stem. Once these dry I plan to give them a smattering of gold and red paint. They smell delightful!
Gingerbread Men Ornaments
I remember trying to eat one of these off the tree when I was little, only to find my mother had made them from homemade play-dough and white paint. You can make your own cute little gingerbread men with an actual cookie recipe, or a self-hardening play-dough by combining 2 c flour, 1/2 c salt, 1 Tbsp oil, about one cup of boiling water. Add food coloring as needed and decorate once fully dried.
Popcorn String
This is such a Christmas classic. I always loved how the popcorn resembles fluffy snowflakes marching around the tree. I’m making some for a garland in my kitchen this year, and added cranberries for color.
I hope you found some useful ideas to try. Stay safe, stay warm, and happy decorating! 🙂